Cheaper flights between the UK and the US could soon be on the horizon after Wizz Air applied to the US Department of Transportation for permission to operate transatlantic services.

In a filing to the US government department, the Hungarian-founded low-cost airline said it wanted to begin flights between the two countries “as soon as possible”, arguing that its entry into the market would deliver greater competition and lower fares for passengers.

Wizz Air said allowing it to launch services would provide “increased travel choices, greater service options, and enhanced competition”, particularly at a time when transatlantic routes are dominated by a small number of major carriers, Sky News reported.

The airline outlined several reasons why its application should be approved, including that WizzAir Holdings’ chairman, William Franke, is a US citizen. It also highlighted its clean safety and tariff record over the past five years, stressing its compliance with international aviation standards.

While no specific routes or destinations were named in the filing, the airline noted that its primary base for aircraft maintenance is London Luton Airport, suggesting that any future services could potentially operate from the UK capital or nearby airports.

If approval is granted, Wizz Air’s move could signal a return of low-cost competition on transatlantic routes.

Budget options between the UK and the US have been limited since Norwegian Air shut down its long-haul operations in 2021, leaving travellers largely reliant on full-service airlines and higher fares.

Industry analysts have long speculated about whether ultra-low-cost carriers could make transatlantic travel profitable again, particularly with newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft.

Wizz Air already operates an extensive short- and medium-haul network across Europe, the Middle East and parts of Asia, and has previously indicated interest in expanding into longer-haul markets.

The airline has not publicly commented on its application and did not respond to a request for comment.

However, it is due to publish its third-quarter financial results later this week, which could offer further insight into its long-term strategy and any potential plans for US services.

For now, travellers will have to wait for regulatory approval and further announcements, but the prospect of budget flights across the Atlantic is likely to be welcomed by UK passengers eager for cheaper fares to the US.